Charleston’s historic district comes alive through excellent walking tours that truly make sense of this complex Southern city. History-focused walks pack in maximum sightseeing – I especially recommend tours covering African American heritage sites and women’s history for their lesser-known but crucial perspectives. Ghost tours after dark are atmospheric and entertaining, while food tours showcase authentic Lowcountry cooking at local favorites.
Small-group tours (usually 6-12 people) led by certified guides work best, allowing for good interaction and unrushed exploration. Among the many options, architectural tours and culinary walks consistently earn my highest ratings for their depth and value.
Check our carefully selected top tours to make the most of your Charleston visit.
Good To Know
The Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour provides a 2-hour overview of the city’s top sights for a max of 20 travelers.
The Charleston Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour offers a 90-minute exploration of the city’s haunted history for a max of 20 travelers.
The Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour is a guided, max 12-traveler tour that includes tastings of the city’s regional flavors.
The Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour is a 2-hour, max 20-traveler tour that delves into the African American history of the city.
The Behind the Scenes of Shem Creek Shrimp Walking Tour provides a unique opportunity to witness shrimpers at work and enjoy a seaside snack.
Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour
The Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour provides an excellent introduction to the city’s historic French Quarter and South of Broad neighborhoods. You’ll learn about Charleston’s rich history from your knowledgeable guide during this 2-hour tour.
With a maximum group size of 20 travelers, you’ll get a personalized experience as you explore the city’s iconic sights. The tour covers the key highlights, making it perfect for first-time visitors.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, children are welcome as long as they’re accompanied by an adult. Just remember to bring water and sun/rain protection.
At the end, you’ll be near Meeting Street and Broad Street, ready to continue your Charleston adventure.
Read our full review: Highlights of Charleston Guided Walking Tour Review
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Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour
Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour is a delightful way to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Led by a local guide, you’ll learn about the history of food in Charleston while sampling local delights like benne wafers, barbecue, and grits.
The tour takes you on a leisurely stroll through the streets, allowing you to see a different side of the city. With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience and have the opportunity to ask questions. The tour includes bottled water, food tastings, and gratuities, making it a convenient and enjoyable way to learn about Charleston’s culinary heritage.
Read our full review: Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour Review
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Charlestons Pleasing Terrors Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour
Embarking on Charleston’s Pleasing Terrors Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour promises an exhilarating exploration of the city’s supernatural side. Led by the popular Pleasing Terrors Podcast host, Mike Brown, the 90-minute tour combines captivating storytelling with insightful knowledge of Charleston’s hidden and often frightening history.
You’ll learn about the city’s most fascinating ghost encounters, spooky folklore, and fascinating past. Traversing the streets at night, you’ll discover Charleston’s eerie, otherworldly atmosphere. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour ensures an intimate and immersive experience.
Complimentary bottled water is provided during the summer months, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, welcoming service animals. Highly recommended by 95% of travelers, this ghost tour is a must-do for those seeking a chilling yet enlightening experience in Charleston.
Read our full review: Charlestons Pleasing Terrors Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour Review
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Charleston Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour
Uncover Charleston’s haunted past on the Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour. This 90-minute after-hours exploration takes you to infamously spooky locations, including the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. Your guide shares historical narratives and ghost stories, offering a chilling glimpse into the city’s dark history.
The tour departs at 8 pm from the intersection of Vendue Range and Concord Streets, ending near the starting point. With a maximum group size of 20 travelers, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
With 446 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this ghost tour is among the best walking tours Charleston has to offer.
Read our full review: Charleston Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour Review
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Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour
Explore Charleston’s rich black history on the captivating Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour. Led by writer, historian, and licensed guide Damon Fordham, this 2-hour walking tour explores the city’s lesser-known African American sites. Visit the Jehu Junes Hotel location, learn about the setting of Porgy and Bess, and hear stories about Mother Emanuel A.M.E. Church.
Discover Charleston’s important black figures and uncover historical narratives that have faded from memory. With a maximum group size of 20, this tour provides an intimate and engaging experience. Highly recommended by 97% of travelers, the Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour is a must-do for those seeking a deeper understanding of the city’s diverse past.
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Charleston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
This Charleston Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours provides a 3-hour culinary adventure that showcases the city’s mouthwatering local delicacies. Led by a passionate and experienced guide, you’ll indulge in Charleston specialties like BBQ, She-Crab soup, and fried green tomatoes, plus a mysterious “Secret Dish.” Along the way, you’ll learn about the city’s rich history and culture.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour offers an intimate experience. Though hotel pickup isn’t included, and gratuities are extra, the 4.9-star rating (from over 1,000 reviews) and 96% recommendation rate suggest it’s worth the investment for an authentic taste of Charleston.
Read our full review: Charleston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours Review
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Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Rainbow Row, Churches, and More
Explore Charleston’s rich history and architectural gems on this captivating walking tour. Led by an entertaining local guide, you’ll stroll through the historic district, marveling at Rainbow Row, the historic Waterfront Battery, and antebellum mansions.
Venture into hidden gardens and courtyards, and admire the city’s historic churches and graveyards. The tour also includes a visit to the Powder Magazine Museum. With a choice of morning or afternoon departures, this 2-hour excursion is a convenient and comprehensive way to discover Charleston’s most iconic sights. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and operates in all weather conditions, with a maximum of 20 travelers.
Read our full review: Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Rainbow Row, Churches, and More Review
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Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour
Discover Charleston’s captivating history and hidden gems on this intimate small-group walking tour. You’ll explore enchanting alleyways and passages, visiting top attractions like Rainbow Row and historic churches. Along the way, you’ll learn about the city’s rich past, from the Revolutionary to the Civil War.
The guided tour includes a stop at the Powder Magazine Museum and admission to all sites. With a licensed local guide leading the way, you’ll enjoy a personalized 2-hour experience. The tour is stroller-accessible and operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately. Don’t miss this chance to uncover Charleston’s off-the-beaten-path wonders.
Read our full review: Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour Review
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Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour
Enjoy Charleston’s captivating history and architectural marvels on this guided sightseeing walking tour. Over 2 hours, you’ll explore the city’s historic district, including the Charleston City Hall, the Dock Street Theatre, and the iconic White Point Garden with a view of Fort Sumter.
Stroll through the charming French Quarter and South of Broad residential area, and admire the colorful Rainbow Row. Along the way, your professional and licensed local guide will share insights into Charleston’s rich past and significant events. The tour also includes admission to the Powder Magazine Museum.
Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point on 80 Broad St.
Read our full review: Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour Review
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Charleston Historical Walking Tour With a Professor of History at the Citadel
This Charleston historical walking tour, led by a Professor of History at The Citadel, offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the city’s captivating past. Covering the colonial era through the American Revolution and Civil War, you’ll visit historical sites, homes, gardens, and more, while an expert guide provides in-depth information and engaging stories.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, this intimate experience allows for personalized attention and ample time for questions. Highly rated by previous participants, the tour’s smaller group size, credentialed guide, and comprehensive itinerary make it a standout choice for those seeking an immersive exploration of Charleston’s rich history.
Read our full review: Charleston Historical Walking Tour With a Professor of History at the Citadel Review
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Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour With Unitarian Church Graveyard
Step into the captivating world of Charleston’s haunted history on this after-dark walking tour. Hear captivating tales from an entertaining guide as you explore the city’s supernatural side.
Gain exclusive access to the famously haunted Unitarian Church Graveyard, where you’ll stroll among tombs and vaults overgrown with lush foliage. Learn about the illnesses, accidents, and mysteries that brought the graveyard’s inhabitants to their final resting place.
This 90-minute tour offers two options: a 1-hour graveyard visit or a 1.5-hour tour that also includes the city’s ghostly highlights. With over 2,500 glowing reviews, this is a must-do experience for anyone seeking a thrilling glimpse into Charleston’s haunted past.
Read our full review: Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour With Unitarian Church Graveyard Review
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Behind the Scenes of Shem Creek Shrimp Walking Tour
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Nestled along the banks of Shem Creek, this walking tour offers a captivating behind-the-scenes glimpse into Charleston’s vibrant shrimping industry. Led by Charleston Historic Tours LLC, the small group tour immerses you in the daily workings of the shrimping fleet.
You’ll witness the shrimpers at work, learn about their time-honored traditions, and enjoy a complimentary seaside snack. The 1.5-mile walk ends at the picturesque Mount Pleasant waterfront boardwalk.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with back, heart, or pregnancy-related issues. But for those seeking an authentic Charleston experience, this tour is a highly recommended 100% traveler-approved adventure.
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Nestled along the banks of Shem Creek, this walking tour offers a captivating behind-the-scenes glimpse into Charleston’s vibrant shrimping industry. Led by Charleston Historic Tours LLC, the small group tour immerses you in the daily workings of the shrimping fleet.
You’ll witness the shrimpers at work, learn about their time-honored traditions, and enjoy a complimentary seaside snack.
The 1.5-mile walk ends at the picturesque Mount Pleasant waterfront boardwalk.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with back, heart, or pregnancy-related issues. But for those seeking an authentic Charleston experience, this tour is a highly recommended 100% traveler-approved adventure.
Read our full review: Behind the Scenes of Shem Creek Shrimp Walking Tour Review
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Charleston Chicora 2 Hours Walking Tour
Explore Charleston’s rich history and the legacy of the Chicora Native American tribe on this captivating 2-hour walking tour. You’ll visit iconic landmarks like St. Philips Church, the Old Slave Mart Museum, and the charming Rainbow Row, while also discovering lesser-known gems off the beaten path.
Led by an experienced guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Charleston’s past and the impact of the Chicora people. With 241 glowing reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must for anyone seeking an immersive and enlightening experience. Just ensure you have a moderate fitness level and don’t mind a bit of walking.
Read our full review: Charleston Chicora 2 Hours Walking Tour Review
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Charlestons Savor the Flavors of Upper King Street Walking Food Tour
Enjoy the vibrant culinary scene of Charleston’s Upper King Street on this 2.5-hour walking food tour. You’ll sample typical Charleston and South Carolina staples, learning about the history of the area’s food as you go.
Explore off-the-beaten-path spots and experience the famous Upper King Street district. Your professional local guide will lead you to 5 or 6 food tastings, highlighting the region’s flavors. With a leisurely pace, you’ll discover the area’s charm.
Keep in mind that this tour is extremely seafood-heavy, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies. With a 4.7 rating and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is sure to impress.
Read our full review: Charlestons Savor the Flavors of Upper King Street Walking Food Tour Review
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Charleston History, Homes, and Architecture Guided Walking Tour
Uncover the rich history and captivating architecture of Charleston, South Carolina, on this comprehensive 2-hour guided walking tour. You’ll explore the city’s historic district and French Quarter, learning about its pivotal role in American history from the American Revolution to the Civil War. Stroll through the charming streets, visit popular landmarks like the Old Slave Mart and Washington Square, and admire the stunning architecture.
Along the way, you’ll hear tales of historic churches and gain insights into the residential area south of Broad. The tour is wheelchair and stroller-accessible, making it an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family. Don’t miss the included admission to the Powder Magazine Museum.
Read our full review: Charleston History, Homes, and Architecture Guided Walking Tour Review
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Charleston Boo Hag & Brews Walking Ghost and Bar Tour
Take a thrilling journey through Charleston’s haunted past on the Charleston Boo Hag & Brews Walking Ghost and Bar Tour. With a 4.9 rating from 169 reviews and a 98% recommendation, this combination bar crawl and ghost tour is a must-do activity.
Visit two bars, enjoy a complimentary snack at the first, and hear chilling ghost stories as you stroll by graveyards and historic sites. The tour culminates at a local park, where you’ll learn about a feared ghost in Charleston. Suitable for travelers 21 and over, this tour provides snacks and alcoholic beverages. However, it’s not recommended for those with physical limitations.
Book your tour today for an unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Charleston Boo Hag & Brews Walking Ghost and Bar Tour Review
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Historic Women of Charleston Guided Walking Tour
Explore Charleston’s rich history through the lens of the city’s influential women on the Historic Women of Charleston Guided Walking Tour. This 2-hour walking tour led by a licensed guide takes you to key sights like the Pink House Gallery and Rainbow Row, revealing the stories of the remarkable females who shaped the city.
Perfect for history buffs and feminists, the tour runs in the afternoon, leaving your evenings free. With a maximum of 20 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and near public transportation. Requiring a moderate fitness level, this highly rated tour has earned a Certificate of Excellence award.
Read our full review: Historic Women of Charleston Guided Walking Tour Review
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Small Group Historic Walking Tours With Certified Guides
Dive deeper into Charleston’s captivating past with small group historic walking tours led by certified guides. With a 5.0 rating and 153 reviews, these immersive experiences offer an unparalleled way to explore the city’s historical center, learn about key events from the American Revolution and Civil War, and admire the stunning architecture and heritage sites.
Conveniently meeting at 80 Broad St. and ending at 122 E Bay St., these tours cater to travelers seeking a moderate fitness level. Priced at $30 or less, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, these small group tours are an excellent value and come highly recommended by 100% of past participants.
Read our full review: Small Group Historic Walking Tours With Certified Guides Review
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Dark Side of Charleston Guided Night-Time Walking Tour
Charleston’s dark side comes alive on the captivating Dark Side of Charleston Guided Night-Time Walking Tour. During this 90-minute evening stroll, you’ll explore the city’s seedy underbelly and hear stories of raucous brothels and misbehavior. Your professional guide will lead you through historically scandalous locations, sharing the sordid details of Charleston’s past.
This adults-only, uncensored tour requires a minimum of 4 participants and has a maximum of 20 travelers. Bring your curiosity and prepare to be immersed in Charleston’s more salacious history. With 189 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this tour is a must for those seeking an eye-opening look at the “Holy City’s” darker side.
Read our full review: Dark Side of Charleston Guided Night-Time Walking Tour Review
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Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Night-Time Guided Walking Tour
For those seeking a chilling exploration of Charleston’s haunted past, the Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Night-Time Guided Walking Tour offers a captivating experience. Over 2-3 hours, you’ll embark on a walking tour through the historic district and oldest cemetery, uncovering grisly histories and tales of ghosts, voodoo, and accidental burials.
Your local, licensed guide will share the origins of creepy sayings like “graveyard shift.” The tour operates year-round, so dress appropriately. With a minimum of 4 participants required, you’ll explore Charleston’s dark side alongside a group of up to 20 travelers. This 4.5-star rated tour provides a spooky yet informative look into the city’s haunted heritage.
Read our full review: Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Night-Time Guided Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Walking Tours?
For the walking tours, you’ll want to dress comfortably. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and dress in layers to accommodate the changing weather. Bring a water bottle and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during your stroll.
Are the Tours Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair and stroller accessible, though some routes may involve uneven terrain or steps. It’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time to ensure the tour can accommodate your mobility needs.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walking Tours?
Unfortunately, most walking tour companies in Charleston do not allow pets on their tours. However, you may be able to find a few specialized pet-friendly tours if you inquire with local tour operators. Be sure to check their policies ahead of time.
How Long in Advance Should I Book the Walking Tours?
You should book walking tours in Charleston at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. This ensures availability and allows you to plan your itinerary accordingly. Booking early helps avoid disappointment.
Is There an Option to Customize the Walking Tour Itinerary?
You can often customize walking tour itineraries to focus on your specific interests. Many tour companies are happy to tailor the route and content to suit your needs, so don’t hesitate to inquire about customization options.
The Sum Up
Charleston offers a variety of guided walking tours that allow you to explore the city’s rich history, architecture, and culture. Whether you’re interested in the paranormal, culinary delights, or the untold stories of marginalized communities, there’s a tour to suit your interests. With knowledgeable guides and small group sizes, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this charming Southern city.